I came back for the first time in years a few months ago, and whilst it was a brief visit it definitely was a memorable one. Sadly, not for as good a reasons as I'd hope to share, but it's not terrible either.
Came here post-Yelp Whisky do, as a few folks couldn't get into Sela having just purchased booze from Gerry's to take home. We trotted along to The Ship for last orders, and all ordered a pint, and then piled into the back room snug. Service was surly, but we'd all gotten a drink, and were just about to settle in and have a natter when a bar staff came through to ask us to move into the main bar. Right, we'd just gotten served, but you want us to move?
So, we moved into the main bar, after asking if we couldn't just drink our drinks quickly, with a seat. Apparently not, it was a resounding, un-budge-able no. Brusque. We sat, in two separate groups given the seating in the main bar, and continued to sup our fresh pints. Then we were asked to drink up, as they wanted to close and get home.
So, I appreciate everything bar staff do. It's a tiring job, usually with long hours, plenty of customers who give you jip, and all the rest. But in my days as a bar tender, it was considered not just polite, but a matter of course, to let folks know that you'd be closing in ten minutes if that was the case - at least then on their heads be it if they wanted to down a pint. I'd have not spent the money if I knew we'd be kicked out within 10 minutes, and didn't appreciate being made to feel inconsiderate for wanting to have my whole pint.
Regardless of the above, I'm certain you could have a jolly old time here under more standard circumstances. I'd not a chance to see what ales and tipples were available, but it's pretty trad here. And seemed pretty quiet too, for a Friday, so definitely worth a look if you prefer quiet conversation and a drink to the madness that a weekend can be. Staff aside (perhaps it was a bad day, or perhaps they're always short) the décor is gorgeous and the pub has a good feel. I'm a sucker for the ginnel pubs! read more